Study shows consumers shifting their favoured snacking time

Consumers in Scotland are turning their backs on the age-old tradition of mid-morning snacking, according to a new survey from Lanark-based biscuit manufacturer, Border.

Findings from its most recent study show the average time in the day people pause to enjoy a treat is around 3.20pm, demonstrating a shift in the nation’s psyche around the morning break for ‘elevenses’ – the conventional time for snacking.

The survey, which questioned 1,000 people across Scotland, revealed those in Perth snack the latest, reaching for a sweet or savoury nibble at around 4.20pm, while those in Inverness on average, take a break for a pick-me-up at 2.20pm.

Almost half of respondents (45%) admitted they don’t like sharing their snacks, with those under 34 years old, appearing to be the most selfish. More than half (52%) agreed that they didn’t like to share their snacks at all.

Females were confirmed as the worst secret snackers, with twice as many women (20%) compared to men admitting to hiding from their kids to scoff a snack. The results have also revealed that almost three quarters of Scots end up eating twice as many biscuits as they had originally intended.

Border has introduced a new Snack Pack offering across retailers in Scotland that is perfectly tailored to the needs of today’s grab and go society. Featuring some of the nation’s favourites, the new Snack Pack contains six individually wrapped biscuits in three varieties, including Golden Oat Crumbles, Light and Buttery Viennese Whirls and Divinely Chocolatey Cookies.

Suzie Carlaw, marketing manager from Border, said: “It appears Scots suffer from mid-afternoon munchies as opposed to mid-morning pangs and are reaching for a pick-me-up to avoid the afternoon slump.

“Our Snack Packs are the perfect premium sweet treat to get you through the day without feeling guilty that you’ve had one too many, as the individual portions allow for guilt free snacking.”

The survey also uncovered the secret hiding places of serial snackers, with close to a third (28%) admitting to stashing snacks in their bags and a quarter smuggling treats into their bedroom. Scots also shared they store treats in their cars, wardrobes and even on top of the fridge to keep them out of reach of others.